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Tannat

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Tannat is a black grape variety that produces dry red wines. It is native to South- West France however it has found its spiritual home in Uruguay, becoming the flagship variety of the country.

Tannat wines are typically deeply colored and are known for their high levels of tannins, which actually inspired the grape’s name. The grape usually has multiple seeds (5 seeds compared to 2-3 seeds in other grapes) and thick densely pigmented skin, both of which contribute to the wine’s high level of tannins.

Traditionally, due to the astringent and harsh tannins, Tannat wines usually needed a long period of ageing in the cellar and/or the bottle to soften the tannins and make the wine more approachable. Lately, however, these wines are being produced with softer and rounder tannins thanks to riper grapes and modern winemaking techniques.

Madiran – France

Madiran is the only sub-region in France focusing on red wines led by the Tannat grapes. Madiran wines should include at least 50% of Tannat in the blend, complemented by other red grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Tannat wines coming from Madiran are known for their structure and they typically have pronounced tannins with aromas and flavors of black fruits such as blackcurrant and blackberry, leather, tobacco and earthy notes.

Uruguay

Uruguay produces Tannat’s most famous and successful expressions and it is now the biggest producer of this wine. The wines can be single varietal or classically blended with Merlot.

Thanks mainly to the warmer climate in Uruguay, Tannat wines here are more powerful than those in Madiran in terms of body, alcohol and aromas, although fresher and fruitier versions are being produced lately too.

These wines also have high tannins but are much smoother than their French counterpart. They are full bodied and deeply colored wines with high alcohol and concentrated flavors of ripe black fruits, dried fruits like prunes and notes of violet and spice.

Tannat today can also be found in small plantings in the USA and Argentina.